FLANKER Sam Lewis has committed his future to Worcester Warriors by signing a new contract.

The 27-year-old Welshman is the first player this season to pen a new deal and he admitted he "didn't have to think twice" about extending his stay.

Lewis has made 29 appearances for Warriors since his move from Ospreys in 2015.

He memorably scored a hat-trick in Warriors’ Championship play-off semi-final victory against London Scottish in 2015 and has been instrumental for the side since returning from a lengthy injury lay-off last autumn.

His form in the latter stages of last season coincided with an upturn in fortunes as Warriors moved clear of the foot of the table.

Lewis has again been a stand-out performer this season, featuring eight times.

Warriors director of rugby Gary Gold said: “We are delighted that Sam has committed to the club as he has been a key player for us over the last year.

“There is no doubt he possesses a huge amount of talent and an experienced rugby brain, and that is illustrated by his consistently impressive performances week in, week out.

“It is important for us to retain the players who will be able to take this club forward and to start that process by securing the signature of Sam is hugely positive for everyone at Sixways.”

Lewis said: “When I was offered a new contract I didn’t have to think twice about extending my stay at Sixways.

“The club stuck by me during a difficult stage of my career when I was injured for a long time and I want to repay that loyalty by staying here and helping the club move forward.

“There are a lot of talented players at Sixways and this club has the potential to achieve great things in the future so I am very excited to be a part of that.”